ConAgra Foods Invests $100 Million To Expand Its Russellville, Arkansas Production Facility

Area Development News Desk

09/25/2012

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ConAgra Foods, Inc. will invest more than $100 million to expand its Russellville, Arkansas, production facility, adding more than 80 jobs and bringing its total workforce in the region to more than 1,430 employees.

The firm said it is expanding its Russellville production as a result of ConAgra's recent acquisition of the Bertolli and P.F. Chang's Home Menu frozen meal business from Unilever. As part of its expansion, production lines will be added to produce these two new items.

"ConAgra Foods has a long history in Russellville and we are pleased to grow our presence in the area," said Mike Tracy, Senior Vice President of Consumer Foods Supply Chain for ConAgra Foods, "Our dedicated employees, along with the support of the city of Russellville and the State of Arkansas will allow us to make great food here for many years to come."

"With agriculture as our largest industry, Arkansas has long had an established presence in the food-processing sector," Governor Mike Beebe said. "When you see world-class companies like ConAgra Foods locate and then expand in Arkansas, it shows the strength of our state and our workforce."

"ConAgra Foods and its predecessor companies have been an integral part of Russellville's economy for many years," said Russellville Mayor Bill Eaton. "It is exciting to know that their management and corporate decision makers consider our city a good investment. We appreciate the value added element this organization provides."

"ConAgra Foods has been an outstanding corporate citizen in the Arkansas River Valley for decades and the community is more than willing to do everything necessary to help insure the company's success for years to come", stated Jeff Pipkin, President of the Arkansas Valley Alliance for Economic Development. "This is the largest industrial investment in the area since Arkansas Nuclear One was constructed over 40 years ago. This additional investment and increased employment will certainly strengthen our local economy.

Incentives provided the firm to assist with its expansion include assistance from the state to fund roadway improvements, sales tax abatements to reduce new equipment costs and income tax incentives based on job creation.